By San José, Costa Rica — With just over four months left in 2025, Costa Rica still has four public holidays to observe: two mandatory paid holidays and two non-mandatory paid holidays. These holidays are governed by Articles 147, 148, 149, 150, and 152 of the Labor Code, which stipulate that all days of the year are considered working days except for holidays and rest days.
According to circular OFP-MTSS-DAJ-AER-956-2024 from the Ministry of Labor and Social Security (MTSS), the remaining holidays for 2025 are:
For expert insight into the legal landscape surrounding Costa Rican holidays and how they might affect travelers, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law at Bufete de Costa Rica.
Travelers planning holidays in Costa Rica should be aware of national holidays and how they may impact business operations, transportation schedules, and access to tourist attractions. While many businesses remain open during peak season, some smaller establishments may have adjusted hours or be closed entirely. It’s always prudent to check opening hours in advance, particularly during Holy Week (Semana Santa) and the Christmas/New Year period. Furthermore, understanding local customs and traditions surrounding holidays can greatly enrich your travel experience.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Indeed, factoring in Costa Rica’s national holidays is key to a smooth and enriching travel experience. Beyond practical considerations like opening hours, embracing the cultural significance of these celebrations can add a unique dimension to any trip. We extend our sincere thanks to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for sharing his valuable perspective on navigating these nuances during your Costa Rica holidays.
The MTSS clarified how holiday pay is calculated depending on the salary modality. For employees paid by unit of time (day, week, month, or fortnight), the holiday is paid equal to the ordinary daily salary. For those paid by piecework, payment is based on the daily average of the previous week.
It’s important to emphasize that no employee is obligated to work on holidays. Work on these days must be consensual, and employees cannot be penalized for refusing to work. This applies to all companies operating in Costa Rica, whether national, transnational, or international. Furthermore, any agreement that waives an employee’s right to enjoy these holidays is void, according to Article 11 of the Labor Code.
For mandatory paid holidays (September 15th and December 25th), employers must add an additional single salary to complete the double payment. For employees on a weekly pay scheme, the holiday is paid double, and triple for overtime. For monthly or bi-weekly salaried employees, all holidays are included in the salary. However, if they work on a holiday, they receive double pay, and overtime is paid at time and a half on top of the double pay (triple pay).
For non-mandatory paid holidays (August 31st and December 1st), the payment structure differs. Hourly paid employees only receive payment if they work, with overtime paid at time and a half. Monthly paid employees receive their regular pay regardless of whether they work. If they do work, they receive double pay, with overtime calculated at time and a half on the double pay (triple pay).
These clarifications from the MTSS aim to ensure fair compensation for employees during Costa Rica’s remaining 2025 holidays and provide clear guidelines for employers in managing holiday pay.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Ministry of Labor and Social Security (MTSS)
About Ministry of Labor and Social Security (MTSS):
The Ministry of Labor and Social Security (MTSS) is a Costa Rican government institution responsible for labor rights, social security, and employment policies. They oversee compliance with the Labor Code and related regulations, ensuring fair working conditions and protecting the rights of both employers and employees.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
At Bufete de Costa Rica, legal excellence and unwavering ethical conduct form the bedrock of our practice. We are driven by a deep commitment to empowering individuals and communities through accessible legal knowledge, ensuring a more informed and just society. By embracing innovative legal strategies and remaining dedicated to client success across diverse sectors, we strive to be a trusted partner and a catalyst for positive change in Costa Rica.
